Growing Cardamom in this country is a novel luxury. Although used
for centuries, many Americans are not familiar with this spice. Native to India, where it
is used mainly in curry mixes, this plant grows to 15 feet. It needs the warm tropics to
make seeds. Even though we must buy our cardamom seeds,
we can certainly enjoy the spicy scent of the leaves which is particularly
nice when added to a pot of hot tea. Just brushing
against the leaves releases a heavenly pumpkin pie aroma.

According to The
Complete Spice Book, Cardamom is the third most expensive spice in the world,
after vanilla, which comes from an orchid and saffron, which comes from a crocus.
And, while popular in India, more is consumed in Sweden in baked goods and in Arab lands
where it is used for coffee.

Always buy whole Cardamom seeds and grind them fresh when needed.
Pre-ground spices degrade very quickly and are never as flavorful as freshly ground ones.

Cardamom likes it shady and moist and is frost tender.
It grows well in the house with adequate light. Our 15
Inch Square Terra Roma Planteris the perfect size to start your Cardamom growing
big and robust.